Hong Kong: Security forces deploy tear gas as demonstrators gather in Yuen Long July 21 /update 2

Event

Groups of demonstrators gathered in Yuen Long (New Territories) and other locations on Tuesday, July 21, to commemorate attacks during anti-government protests in 2019. Protesters gathered around Yuen Long's Yoho mall, the Yuen Long MTR station, and the Landmark mall in Central. Hundreds of riot police cordoned off areas and urged demonstrators not to gather due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions. Police reportedly used tear gas during at least one skirmish, although the protests seemed to remain largely peaceful.

Similar protests were reported in Yuen Long on Sunday, July 19.

A heightened security presence is likely in the vicinity of all protest sites, and associated disruptions are to be anticipated.

Context

At least 45 people were hospitalized following attacks on protesters and commuters in Yuen Long on July 21 2019, following a large protest march on Hong Kong Island that drew an estimated 400,000 people. A large group of men wearing white shirts attacked people in the Yuen Long MTR station and on the street with metal rods and bamboo poles as protesters were returning from the rally. 

Demonstrations have been held throughout Hong Kong since June 2019 to protest a controversial extradition bill, which would have allowed authorities in Hong Kong to extradite fugitives wanted in mainland China and other territories. While the bill was withdrawn in September, mass protests continue to be organized to demand government reforms and police accountability over violence since the start of the demonstrations.

After a break in protests due to the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, demonstrations have increased in frequency since the relaxation of COVID-19 measures in late April. There has also been an uptick in protest activity since Beijing proposed introducing the controversial new security law in May 2020. The law came into effect on the evening of June 30; under the new legislation, individuals can be arrested for being directly or indirectly involved in secession, subversion, terrorist activities, or collusion with a foreign country or other external elements that could endanger national security. The maximum sentence for violating the law is life imprisonment. A new Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People's Government will also be set up in Hong Kong to assist in dealing with national security issues. Under certain conditions, the new Office will be allowed to prosecute individuals under mainland Chinese law.

Advice

Individuals in Hong Kong are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.